Nigeria’s senior men’s cricket team have made history after defeating Uganda by one run to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C in Abuja.
The Yellow Greens secured the dramatic victory on Sunday, October 25, ending a 13-match winless run against Uganda in T20 internationals and completing a perfect campaign in the tournament.
The triumph also secured Nigeria’s place in the next stage of qualification for the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled for 2027.
Danladi, Rahmon Lead Nigeria’s Batting Effort
After winning the toss and electing to bat at the Nigeria Cricket Federation Oval 1 in Abuja, Nigeria were bowled out for 148 runs in 19.4 overs.
Isaac Danladi top-scored with an impressive 47 off 28 deliveries, including three fours and four sixes, while Ali Rahmon contributed 35 runs from 23 balls. Selim Salau also made a valuable 30 off 24 deliveries.
Uganda’s Joseph Baguma caused significant damage with the ball, taking four wickets for 21 runs as Nigeria lost wickets at regular intervals.
Despite the late setbacks, the hosts managed to post a competitive total that kept them in contention.
Uganda Fight Back as Nigeria Face Defeat
Uganda began their chase confidently, with Riazat Ali Shah producing a strong innings of 60 from 36 balls, including three fours and five sixes.
Riazat combined with Olipa Gerald, who scored 18, in a 78-run partnership that put Uganda in a commanding position.
Nigeria, however, refused to surrender. Sylvester Okpe removed Riazat and Gerald, while Isaac Okpe claimed two wickets to disrupt Uganda’s progress.
Uganda subsequently slipped from 108 for four to 117 for six before rebuilding their innings. The visitors eventually reached 143 for seven by the end of the 19th over, needing just six runs from the final over to win.
Nigeria Hold Their Nerve in Final Over
With the match hanging in the balance, Vincent Adewoye delivered a crucial final over, conceding only four runs from the first five deliveries.
Uganda then needed two runs from the final ball to force a tie, but Juma Miyagi was run out after completing one run.
Uganda finished on 147 for nine, falling one run short of Nigeria’s total of 148.
The result sparked celebrations for the hosts, who had overcome a difficult finish to secure one of their most significant victories in international cricket.
Nigeria Complete Perfect Qualifying Campaign
The victory completed Nigeria’s five-match winning run in the Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier C, following earlier victories over The Gambia, Zambia, Mozambique and Lesotho.
The result marks a significant milestone for the Yellow Greens, who entered the competition determined to progress through the qualification pathway towards the 2028 T20 World Cup.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to the next qualifying stage in 2027, where they will face stronger opposition in their continued bid to reach the global tournament.
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